Celina Philpot, current CEO of Conexus Credit Union, has been appointed CEO of the newly merged credit union taking effect Jan. 1, 2026. (photo/Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce)

By Kenneth Cheung

'TOGETHER FOR A THRIVING SASKATCHEWAN'

Conexus name, CEO to lead 2026 merger of three Sask. credit unions

Jul 23, 2025 | 11:13 AM

Three Saskatchewan credit unions are joining forces under a single name and leader, forming the province’s largest financial cooperative.

Conexus, Synergy and Cornerstone credit unions announced Wednesday they will merge as of Jan. 1, 2026, under the Conexus Credit Union banner. Celina Philpot, who currently serves as CEO of Conexus, has been named to lead the new organization.

“I’m honoured to lead the new Conexus Credit Union into this exciting next chapter,” Philpot said in a statement.

“This merger marks a powerful commitment to our members and communities across Saskatchewan. I’m deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to working alongside our dedicated employees and Board to build a stronger, more resilient credit union that is deeply rooted in community and focused on the future.”

The newly merged credit union manages $15 billion in assets, serves over 200,000 members, and operates 57 branches in 50 communities across Saskatchewan. It will bring together 1,400 employees under one structure.

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The merged entity will carry forward the Conexus name, a choice leaders said was backed by research and brand recognition.

“The name Conexus is recognized and respected across Saskatchewan, making it a powerful foundation for our new, unified credit union,” said Neil Carruthers, board chair of Synergy Credit Union.

“It reflects the trust we’ve built in our communities and gives us a strong platform to grow from together, as one organization serving members throughout the province.”

(submitted/Conexus Credit Union)

Philpot’s appointment was unanimously supported by the boards of all three credit unions.

“Celina brings a proven track record of leadership grounded in purpose, collaboration and a deep understanding of what matters most to our members,” said Ken Kosolofski, board chair of Conexus Credit Union.

“Her appointment ensures continuity and confidence as we move into this exciting new chapter.”

Doug Jones, CEO of Cornerstone Credit Union, and Trevor Beaton, CEO of Synergy Credit Union, also endorsed the choice.

“The boards have made a strong and thoughtful decision in appointing Celina as CEO,” Jones said. “I fully support this choice and have every confidence in her ability to lead the new credit union.”

“I’m committed to supporting her and the organization as we move forward together into this exciting new chapter,” Beaton noted.

Planning for integration of systems, services and operations will begin ahead of the 2026 merger. Jones and Beaton will remain in their roles until the transition is complete.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com